Gokurakuji Temple

Gokurakuji (極楽寺), Temple No. 2 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, offers a peaceful and visually striking beginning to this sacred journey. Located in Naruto, the temple is easily recognized by its vivid red torii-like gates, which contrast beautifully with the lush greenery surrounding the grounds. A short path guides visitors through a tranquil garden—complete with a koi pond and seasonal blooms—before leading to a flight of 44 stone steps ascending to the main hall. Near the top, pilgrims are welcomed by a statue of Kūkai (also known as Kōbō Daishi), the revered Buddhist monk who founded the Shingon sect and inspired the 88-temple pilgrimage. At Gokurakuji, he is honored as “Anzan Daishi,” a protector of safe childbirth, adding another layer of spiritual significance to the site.

Gokurakuji is not only a place of devotion but also a site of historical and artistic importance. The temple houses a cultural treasure: a seated wooden statue of Amida Nyorai, originally crafted during the Heian period. According to legend, Kūkai had a vision of the Amida Buddha while meditating here, which led to the statue’s creation. Although the original hall and statue were destroyed by fire in the 16th century, they were faithfully rebuilt in 1659, preserving their legacy for future generations. Today, Gokurakuji remains a serene and spiritually rich destination where history, legend, and faith converge in a setting that is both humble and profound.